Mercer Times

An Ocean County man has been charged with human trafficking and related crimes, according to an announcement by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ), and the New Jersey State Police. The man, identified as Daniel J. Dagostino, 39, from Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey, faces multiple charges for allegedly attempting to lure underage girls for sexual activity.

Dagostino is charged with two counts of human trafficking (first degree and second degree), two counts of attempting to engage in sex with a child under 13 years old (second degree), attempting to lure a child for sex (second degree), and two counts of attempting to debauch the morals of a child (third degree).

Attorney General Platkin stated: “Crimes against children are especially heinous, and the defendant in this case is charged with using the internet to prey upon children. He allegedly believed he was arranging to have sex with children ages 8 and 10. This kind of predatory online behavior will not be tolerated."

DCJ Director Theresa L. Hilton highlighted the increasing dangers associated with internet use: “The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force exists to find and prevent exactly this kind of criminal activity. We can never be too vigilant in our work to stop these crimes.”

Colonel Patrick J. Callahan of the New Jersey State Police described human trafficking involving children as one of the most disturbing crimes imaginable: “The allegations in this case are horrific and underscore the critical need for vigilance in protecting our most vulnerable."

On February 7, 2025, an undercover law enforcement officer posing as an adult male was contacted by a user on an online platform who expressed interest in young girls. Dagostino allegedly initiated sexual conversations about two girls aged 8 and 10 and sent identifying photos of himself.

Arrangements were made for Dagostino to meet at a hotel where he expected to engage in sexual activities with the girls while being watched by another adult male. On February 22, 2025, Dagostino arrived at the location with candy and a condom and was arrested after communicating during his travels.

If convicted, first-degree charges could result in a sentence ranging from 10 to 20 years in state prison along with fines up to $200,000. Second-degree charges carry potential sentences between five and ten years plus fines up to $150,000. Third-degree charges may lead to three-to-five-year sentences along with fines up to $15,000.

The prosecution is being managed by DCJ Deputy Attorney General Michael Forte under supervision from Deputy Chiefs Layli Khelafa and Lisa Rastelli as well as Bureau Chief Laura Magnone.

It should be noted that charges are merely accusations at this stage; Dagostino is presumed innocent until proven guilty.